The ILO's Maritime Labour Convention (MLC), 2006 provides comprehensive rights and protection at work for the world's more than 1.2 million seafarers. The Convention aims to achieve both decent work for seafarers and secure economic interests in fair competition for quality shipowners.

With the ratification of the MLC, 2006 by Australia last December, 22 ILO member States, representing over 56 per cent of the world gross tonnage of ships, are now parties to the Convention. Of the twenty-two ratifications, twelve have been received in 2011 with the majority of these received in the last six months, which shows that national ratification efforts are now nearing completion in many countries in all regions. It is expected that the additional eight ratifications will be obtained in the following three to six moths making it possible for the MLC, 2006 to enter into force in early 2013.

It is important to note that the MLC 2006 applies to all ships, whether publicly or privately owned, that are ordinarily engaged in commercial activities. It will be up to each flag state to determine the later. Ships over 500 GT will have to be certified. Ships below 500 GT will only be required to undergo inspections every 3 years.

The 14 matters and corresponding regulations that must be addressed in the DMLC are:

- Minimum age
- Medical certification
- Qualifications of seafarers
- Use of any licensed or certified or regulated private recruitment and placement service
- Seafarers’ employment agreements
- Payment of wages
- Hours of work or rest
- Manning levels for the ship
- Accommodation
- On-board recreational facilities
- Food and catering
- On-board medical care
- Health and safety and accident prevention
- On-board complaint procedures

What will be the main changes for the yacht owners and manager?
- Flag state inspections under the MLC2006.
- New standards for crew quarters and work conditions for new builds
- New rules for Health protection, medical care, wel- fare measures and other forms of social protection
- Revised crew employment agreements

At Neo Yachting, we are working to anticipate the changes allowing a smooth transition for our clients.

Read more on: www.ilo.org